New hi-tech lights enable better traffic flow at busy Aylesbury junction

Following a successful bid for funding from the Department for Transport, the works began in October and since November, engineers have been fine-tuning the system to ensure it is able to respond to traffic volume and achieve the best balance of vehicles flowing into, around and out of the gyratory.

By responding as needed to traffic flow, the system helps to reduce congestion and avoid potential build ups, keeping traffic moving as freely as possible. For example, on clear roads the system will minimise delays by changing lights more frequently and where there is congestion in a particular area, the lights can adjust to get more traffic away from that location.

As part of the scheme a new signalised pedestrian crossing has also been installed on the Wendover Road, adjacent to the police station, leading to the existing central refuge island. This new crossing provides a safer and more convenient way for pedestrians, including many school children, to get across the busy route. The £500,000 funding also covered some resurfacing work on the Wendover Road.

Steven Broadbent, Cabinet Member for Transport said: “Those familiar with the one-way traffic flow system in the centre of Aylesbury will know that, at busy times of day, it could get snarled up with traffic, causing long queues for motorists. These works should go some way towards improving things for everyone.

“In the past few weeks our transport team has been monitoring the site and fine tuning to ensure the new system is working as it should.”

Steven added: “We will continue to monitor the traffic flows and assess what the response is from road users. As technology continues to provide potential improvements to the highway network, we will seek further funding opportunities to carry out similar works in other parts of the county.”